The majestic slopes of Mount Etna in Sicily, Italy, are not only a breathtaking natural wonder but also the cradle of a flourishing wine-growing community. Here, amidst the lava fields and volcanic soil, fascinating wines are crafted by diligent hands that cherish and take pride in their viticultural heritage. However, if there is one individual who embodies this entire community, it is undoubtedly Salvo Foti, an oenologist and agrarian consultant responsible for some of Etna's finest wines. After more than two decades of research and practice, he has embarked on his most personal venture: I Vigneri di Salvo Foti. Drawing inspiration from his great-grandfather's secret recipe—"...wine is made with grapes... only with grapes!"—he introduces wines that capture the essence of the terroir and reflect the true identity of the region.
This is exemplified in I Vigneri di Salvo Foti Vigna di Milo, a white wine crafted from the indigenous carricante grape variety sourced from a small plot in the municipality of Milo, on the eastern flank of Etna. Old vines planted in volcanic soil at an elevation of 750 meters are tended to by hand using natural products. In the winery, the whole grapes undergo direct pressing with static decantation and the must's natural settling for approximately 30 hours. Fermentation with indigenous yeasts takes place in 2,000-liter wooden barrels over 13-15 days. Subsequently, the wine is matured in 2,500-liter barrels for 12 months and then bottled following clarification through natural sedimentation.
As a viticultural pioneer on Etna, Salvo Foti possesses unparalleled knowledge of the region's potential. His creation, I Vigneri di Salvo Foti Vigna di Milo, is a white wine that bursts with vigorous acidity, tempered only by the distinctive saline touch so characteristic of the area.